Extended Christmas trading begins in Warrnambool's CBD

Best display: Which business will receive the prize from Commonwealth Bank Warrnambool branch customer service manager Adele Griffin for their Christmas window on Thursday night? Picture: Rob Gunstone

Shoppers will have an extra reason to tick off their loved ones wish-lists on Thursday with extended trading hours in the city’s CBD.

Warrnambool will host late night shopping on Thursday, with traders remaining open until 9pm.

Organiser Adele Griffin from the Commonwealth Bank said the city would be abuzz with festive season activities.

“There’ll be live entertainment on every block, Santa will be making an appearance, shop windows will be full of decorations and there’ll be gift-wrapping for $1 with donations going to Standing Tall.”

Ms Griffin said the event was timed to avoid clashing with staff Christmas parties and to encourage shoppers to revisit the new-look cbd.

“Once they get here I think everyone will see the changes and they’ll be impressed,” she said.

“And I hope it’ll get everyone in the Christmas spirit.”

Shoppers will be asked to vote for their favourite shop window with traders being awarded $1000 worth of prizes donated by Warrnambool City Council.